New President for the Children's Court of NSW

13/04/2012

The NSW Attorney General, Greg Smith SC, today announced the appointment of District Court Judge Peter Johnstone as President of the Children’s Court of NSW. � "Aside from being a well respected member of the judiciary, Judge Johnstone has occupied a number of important legal management positions," Mr Smith said.

"His experience as a leader will prove valuable in his new role as the head of the Children’s Court," Mr Smith said. � Judge Johnstone has served on the bench of the District Court since 2006. He has also served as a Deputy Chair of the Medical Tribunal since 2008 and as a part-time Commissioner of the NSW Law Reform Commission since 2010. � “As a judge, he has sat in the criminal and civil jurisdictions of the District Court, in the Medical Tribunal and has presided over a significant number of child care appeals from the Children’s Court,” Mr Smith said. � Prior to taking public office, Judge Johnstone worked as a solicitor for 33 years. He held a number of senior positions at Blake Dawson Waldron including National Chief Operating Partner and Managing Partner of the law firm’s Sydney and Melbourne offices. � Judge Johnstone will begin a five year appointment as President of the Children’s Court on 1 June 2012. He replaces Judge Mark Marien, who will return to the District Court. � "I congratulate Judge Johnstone on his appointment and thank Judge Marien for his significant contribution as the state’s first president of the Children’s Court," Mr Smith said. � Media Contact: Michael Pelly 0467 737 920

13 April 2012